Morata is First Choice – Conte

​Antonio Conte has effectively confirmed the signing of Alvaro Morata from Real Madrid, after the Real Madrid striker passed his medical with Chelsea and is believed to be ready to join up with his new club in Singapore next week, after a club announcement.
With the Spanish international passing his medical on Friday, the £70m deal for a new forward is all but complete and, as quoted by the Daily Star, Conte insisted Morata was always his first choice target.

“I think for sure this is a good signing for us, he is a young player but has a lot of experience, he went to Juventus and Real Madrid.
“He has a lot of experience and I think this is a good sign for us. It is very important the choice. Morata for sure is our first choice. He is a good player, the right prospect for Chelsea and hopes to show his value with us.”
The Chelsea manager defended the fee paid for the player, pointing to the huge sums already spent this window. “For sure this transfer market is a crazy market. Lukaku cost a lot of money, the same with Lacazette. For a right back you spend €50-60m.”
The deal represents a complete turnaround from the state of affairs a few weeks ago, when Romelu Lukaku seemed destined for Chelsea and Morata’s move to Manchester United appeared inevitable.

Despite spending much of last season at Real Madrid as backup to Karim Benzema, Morata still managed to score 15 goals in 26 La Liga appearances – and was Los Blancos second top scorer after Cristiano Ronaldo. He is sure to be given plenty of first team opportunities at Chelsea, and will be spearhead Conte’s new look attack, as the club look to defend the Premier League title.uc